Kiyomizu-dera, formally Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, is a Buddhist temple in eastern Kyoto. The temple is part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage site. (Wikipedia)
Founded in 778 and dedicated to the deity of love and compassion (Kannon), the Kiyomizu-dera Temple has long been open to citizens of all classes. The grounds, which spread over 130,000 square meters along the mid-slope of Mt. Otowa in the eastern part of Kyoto, stand thirty Buddhist buildings, including the national treasure Main Hall and many other important cultural properties. Most of the present buildings were reconstructed in 1633 as many buildings were destroyed (by fire) and rebuilt time and time again.
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's top attractions and most impressive temples. Adding to the fun of the visit is the long slopped walkway leading to the temple. It is composed of steep and busy lanes of the historic Higashiyama District such as Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. There are a variety of restaurants and stores to try local specialities such as Matcha green tea and sweets and to buy Japanese souvenirs like Kiyomizu-yaki pottery.
One of the most recognisable temples in Kyoto.
However, the famed viewing platform was still under construction when I visited.
There were tourists but definitely not like usual Kyoto. It was very calming. Too bad it was raining.